Subtalar plate implant

ABSTRACT

A subtalar plate implant ( 12 ) for correcting and/or altering the alignment of a hyperpronated foot ( 10 ) comprises a plate portion ( 22 ) and an insert portion ( 24 ) that is connected to the plate portion ( 22 ). The plate portion ( 22 ) is selectively attachable to a lateral aspect of the calcaneus ( 16 ). The insert portion ( 24 ) is positionable within the subtalar joint ( 18 ). The insert portion ( 24 ) includes a top surface ( 236 ) that Is selectively positionable substantially adjacent to a base of the talus ( 14 ), the top surface ( 236 ) being angled to allow the talus ( 14 ) to articulate over the top surface ( 236 ). The insert portion ( 24 ) further includes a bottom surface ( 238 ) that is selectively positionable substantially adjacent to a dorsal surface of the calcaneus ( 16 ), The insert portion ( 24 ) can include a groove ( 356 ) that is formed along the bottom surface ( 238 ) substantially parallel to the plate portion ( 22 ).

RELATED APPLICATION

The application claims priority on U.S. patent application Ser. No.16/428,855 filed May 31, 2019, which is a divisional application of U.S.patent application Ser. No. 14/830,525 filed on Aug. 19, 2015, nowissued U.S. Pat. No. 10,307,191 and U.S. Provisional Application Ser.No. 61/765,603 filed on Feb. 15, 2013, entitled “SUBTALAR PLATEIMPLANT”. As far as is permitted, the contents of U.S. ProvisionalApplication Ser. No. 61/765,603 are incorporated herein by reference.

BACKGROUND

In human anatomy, the subtalar joint is a joint of the foot that occursat the meeting point of the talus and the calcaneus. The main ligamentof the subtalar joint, i.e. the interosseous talocalcaneal ligament,runs through the sinus tarsi, which is a canal between the articulationsof the talus and the calcaneus. The subtalar joint has several importantfunctions, including adapting to changes in terrain while walking,pivoting one's body while on their feet, and shock absorption as one'sfeet hit the ground. As such, the subtalar joint can be said to performtwo basic types of motion within the foot, pronation, which is thenatural motion that occurs when one's instep rolls inward, andsupination, which relates to motion in the opposite direction as thefoot rolls outward and the arch height increases. Unfortunately, certainproblems can occur within the subtalar joint, including excessivepronation or hyperpronation, which occurs when the inward motion of theankle bone is excessive and goes past the healthy point necessary forits intended functions. This excessive motion is caused by amisalignment between the ankle bones and the hindfoot bones, e.g., thetalus and the calcaneus. It creates an imbalance of forces and weightdistribution in the foot that propagates throughout the entire body.Over time, this functional imbalance causes repetitive damage to joints,ligaments, tendons, and bone structures. Left untreated, hyperpronationcan lead to foot ailments such as bunions, heel pain (plantarfasciitis), hammertoes, and various other foot ailments. Furthermore,the excessive motion in the foot can travel up the body and cause knee,hip and lower back pain. Accordingly, a means to effectively treatand/or correct for hyperpronation is desired to inhibit any suchproblems.

SUMMARY

The present invention is directed toward a subtalar plate implant forimplanting in a foot, the foot including a talus, a calcaneus, and asubtalar joint at the meeting point of the talus and the calcaneus. Incertain embodiments, the subtalar plate implant comprises a plateportion and an insert portion that is connected to the plate portion.The plate portion is selectively positionable substantially adjacent toa lateral aspect of the calcaneus. Additionally, the plate portionincludes an aperture that is adapted to receive an attacher forselectively attaching the plate portion to the lateral aspect of thecalcaneus. The insert portion is at least partially positionable withinthe subtalar joint when the subtalar plate implant is implanted in thefoot.

As provided in detail herein, the subtalar plate implant is anextraarticular subtalar joint axis-altering arthroereisis implant. Theimplant can be used in the sinus tarsi of the foot, i.e. in the canalbetween the articulations of the talus and the calcaneus, to correctand/or alter the alignment of a hyperpronated foot. The subtalar jointis a complex joint that is positioned below the ankle joint. Thesubtalar joint is comprised of the calcaneus and the talus. It is alsoknown as the talocalcaneal joint and is comprised of three separatearticulations between the two bones referred to as the posterior,middle, and anterior facets.

Arthroereisis procedures, including the use arthroereisis implants, canbe used to restrict the excess pronation of the subtalar joint in anattempt to hold it in a corrected position, while still preservingsupination of the subtalar joint. Stated in another manner, the use of asubtalar arthroereisis implant helps to block or restrict motion betweenthe talus and the calcaneus and beyond, while preserving the subtalarjoint itself. Thus, not only does the arthroereisis implant restrictexcessive pronation, but it allows adequate motion for normal footfunction, thus permitting growth and adaption of the hindfoot andmidfoot joints in more functionally correct realignment without invadingany of the joints.

In one embodiment, the plate portion is shaped to substantially match ashape of the lateral aspect of the calcaneus adjacent to which the plateportion is selectively positionable. Additionally, the plate portion canbe substantially amorphous-shaped. For example, in one embodiment, theplate portion includes a first end, a second end, a top and a bottom.Further, in such embodiment, the plate portion can include an aperturethat is positioned substantially adjacent to each of the first end andthe second end, and an aperture that is positioned substantiallyadjacent to one of the top and the bottom.

Additionally, in one embodiment, the insert portion includes a topsurface that is selectively positionable substantially adjacent to abase of the talus, the top surface being angled to allow the talus toarticulate over the top surface.

Further, in certain embodiments, the insert portion includes a bottomsurface that is selectively positionable substantially adjacent to adorsal surface of the calcaneus. Moreover, the insert portion caninclude a groove that is formed along the bottom surface. The groove canbe formed along the bottom surface substantially parallel to the plateportion. In alternative embodiments, the bottom surface can besubstantially convex-shaped, or the bottom surface can include a pair offlat segments that are angled relative to one another.

In another application, the present invention is directed toward asubtalar plate implant for correcting the hyperpronation of a foot, thefoot including a talus, a calcaneus, and a subtalar joint at the meetingpoint of the talus and the calcaneus, the subtalar plate implantcomprising an insert portion that is at least partially positionablewithin the subtalar joint when the subtalar plate implant is implantedin the foot, the insert portion including a bottom surface that isselectively positionable substantially adjacent to a dorsal surface ofthe calcaneus, and the insert portion including a groove that is formedalong the bottom surface.

In still another application, the present invention is further directedtoward, a subtalar plate implant for correcting the hyperpronation of afoot, the foot including a talus, a calcaneus, and a subtalar joint atthe meeting point of the talus and the calcaneus, the subtalar plateimplant comprising (i) a plate portion that is selectively positionablesubstantially adjacent to a lateral aspect of the calcaneus, the plateportion being substantially amorphous-shaped, the plate portionincluding a first end, a second end, a top and a bottom, wherein theplate portion includes an aperture that is positioned substantiallyadjacent to each of the first end and the second end, and wherein theplate portion includes an aperture that is positioned substantiallyadjacent to one of the top and the bottom, each of the apertures beingadapted to receive an attacher for selectively attaching the plateportion to the lateral aspect of the calcaneus; and (ii) an insertportion that is connected to the plate portion, the insert portionextending substantially perpendicularly away from the plate portion, theinsert portion Including a top surface and a bottom surface, wherein thetop surface is selectively positionable substantially adjacent to a baseof the talus, the top surface being angled to allow the talus toarticulate over the top surface; and wherein the bottom surface isselectively positionable substantially adjacent to a dorsal surface ofthe calcaneus, the insert portion including a groove that is formedalong the bottom surface substantially parallel to the plate portion.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The novel features of this invention, as well as the invention itself,both as to its structure and its operation, will be best understood fromthe accompanying drawings, taken in conjunction with the accompanyingdescription, in which similar reference characters refer to similarparts, and in which:

FIG. 1A is a perspective view of a portion of a foot and an embodimentof a subtalar plate implant having features of the present inventionimplanted therein;

FIG. 1B is another perspective view of a portion of the foot and thesubtalar plate implant of FIG. 1A implanted therein;

FIG. 1C is a front perspective view of a portion of the foot and thesubtalar plate implant of FIG. 1A implanted therein;

FIG. 2A is a simplified perspective view of the subtalar plate implantof FIG. 1A;

FIG. 2B is another simplified perspective view of the subtalar plateimplant of FIG. 2A;

FIG. 2C is a simplified end view of the subtalar plate implant of FIG.2A;

FIG. 2D is a simplified side view of the subtalar plate implant of FIG.2A;

FIG. 2E is another simplified side view of the subtalar plate implant ofFIG. 2A;

FIG. 2F is a simplified top view of the subtalar plate implant of FIG.2A;

FIG. 3A is a simplified perspective view of another embodiment of thesubtalar plate implant;

FIG. 3B is another simplified perspective view of the subtalar plateimplant of FIG. 3A;

FIG. 3C is a simplified end view of the subtalar plate implant of FIG.3A;

FIG. 3D is a simplified side view of the subtalar plate implant of FIG.3A;

FIG. 3E is another simplified side view of the subtalar plate implant ofFIG. 3A;

FIG. 3F is a simplified top view of the subtalar plate implant of FIG.3A;

FIG. 4A is a simplified side view of still another embodiment of thesubtalar plate implant;

FIG. 4B is another simplified side view of the subtalar plate implant ofFIG. 4A;

FIG. 4C is a simplified end view of the subtalar plate Implant of FIG.4A;

FIG. 4D is a simplified top view of the subtalar plate implant of FIG.4A;

FIG. 5A is a simplified side view of yet another embodiment of thesubtalar plate implant;

FIG. 5B is another simplified side view of the subtalar plate implant ofFIG. 5A;

FIG. 5C is still another simplified side view of the subtalar plateimplant of FIG. 5A and a plurality of attachers that are usable with thesubtalar plate implant;

FIG. 5D is a simplified end view of the subtalar plate implant of FIG.5A;

FIG. 5E is another simplified end view of the subtalar plate implant ofFIG. 5A and the plurality of attachers of FIG. 5C;

FIG. 5F is a simplified top view of the subtalar plate implant of FIG.5A; and

FIG. 5G is another simplified top view of the subtalar plate implant ofFIG. 5A and the plurality of attachers of FIG. 5C.

DESCRIPTION

FIG. 1A is a perspective view of a portion of a foot 10 and anembodiment of a subtalar plate implant 12 having features of the presentinvention implanted therein. More particularly, FIG. 1A illustrates thetalus 14 and the calcaneus 16 of the foot 10, and the subtalar plateimplant 12 that is implanted within the subtalar joint 18 at the meetingpoint of the talus 14 and the calcaneus 16.

It should be appreciated that certain soft tissue structures and thefibula have been omitted from FIG. 1A for purposes of clarity, i.e. sothat the subtalar plate implant 12 can be better seen implanted withinthe subtalar joint 18.

The design and size of the subtalar plate implant 12 can be varied tosuit the specific size and design requirements of the subtalar joint 18into which the subtalar plate implant 12 will be implanted and/or toaccommodate different foot anatomies. In the embodiment illustrated inFIG. 1A, the subtalar plate implant 12 comprises an implant body 20including a plate portion 22 and an insert portion 24 that extends awayfrom the plate portion 22.

As an overview, the subtalar plate implant 12 is uniquely designed toeffectively treat and/or correct for hyperpronation of the foot 10. Moreparticularly, as described in detail herein, the subtalar plate implant12 is a subtalar axis-altering arthroereisis implant that can be used inthe sinus tarsi of the foot 10, i.e. in the canal between thearticulations of the talus 14 and the calcaneus 16, to correct and/oralter the alignment of a hyperpronated foot, while still preservingother normal functions of the subtalar joint 18, e.g., supination. Forexample, in various embodiments, when the subtalar plate implant 12 isimplanted within the foot 10, the insert portion 24 of the implant body20 is positioned substantially within the sinus tarsi and/or thesubtalar joint 18 between the talus 14 and the calcaneus 16.

It should be appreciated that the implanting of the subtalar plateimplant 12 within the subtalar joint 18 accomplishes the desiredcorrecting and/or altering of the alignment of the foot 10 withoutrequiring any associated fusion of the subtalar joint 18. Thus, thesubtalar plate implant 12 provided herein properly changes the path ofthe movement of the talus 14 relative to the calcaneus 16. Further, thesubtalar plate implant 12 is uniquely designed to provide stablecorrection to the subtalar joint 18 and proper alignment of the talus 14and the calcaneus 16, while preserving joint motion.

Additionally, the implant body 20 can incorporate various designfeatures, e.g., surface textures, sizes, shapes, and/or other desireddesign features, which can be varied to accommodate the individualpatient into whom the subtalar plate implant 12 is being implanted. Forexample, in some embodiments, the implant body 20 can have asubstantially smooth surface so as to inhibit any discomfort felt by thepatient into whom the subtalar plate implant 12 is implanted. Further,the shape of the implant body 20, i.e. the shape of the plate portion 22and/or the insert portion 24, can be varied to match the anatomicalfeatures of the talus 14 and the calcaneus 16 in the specific areas intowhich and/or adjacent to which the subtalar plate implant 12 isimplanted. Moreover, edges and/or corners of the implant body 20 can besomewhat curved or rounded to further suit the comfort of the patientinto whom the subtalar plate implant 12 is being implanted.

Still further, the implant body 20 can be formed from one or moresuitable materials. For example, in certain embodiments, the plateportion 22 and/or the insert portion 24 of the implant body 20 can bemade from one or more metal or polymeric materials. More specifically,in some non-exclusive alternative embodiments, the metal materials thatmay be used for the plate portion 22 and/or the insert portion 24 of theimplant body 20 can include medical grade stainless steel, titaniumalloy, and/or cobalt chrome alloy. Additionally, in other non-exclusivealternative embodiments, the polymeric materials that may be used forthe plate portion 22 and/or the insert portion 24 of the implant body 20can include polyethylene or polyether ether ketone (PEEK) implant gradematerials. Still additionally and/or alternatively, the plate portion 22and/or the insert portion 24 of the implant body 20 can be formed fromother suitable materials.

In certain embodiments, the plate portion 22 of the implant body 20 maybe shaped to at least substantially match the anatomy, i.e. the shape,of the lateral aspect of the calcaneus 16 in the area where the subtalarplate implant 12 is implanted. Stated in another manner, the plateportion 22 can be shaped to match the anatomy and/or shape of thelateral aspect of the calcaneus 16 adjacent to which the plate portion22 is positioned when the subtalar plate implant 12 is implanted withinthe foot 10. Moreover, in alternative embodiments, the plate portion 22can be formed to have any desired thickness so as to effectivelymaintain the structural integrity of the plate portion 22 and/or thesubtalar plate implant 12, while still allowing for the desired comfortfor the patient into whom the subtalar plate implant 12 is implanted.

Additionally, as shown in FIG. 1A, the plate portion 22 of the Implantbody 20 can include one or more apertures 26. Each of the apertures 26is designed and/or adapted to receive an attacher 27, e.g., a screw,that will be inserted into the calcaneus 16 to secure the subtalar plateimplant 12 in place, i.e. with the plate portion 22 positionedsubstantially adjacent to an area of the lateral aspect of the calcaneus16. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1A, the plate portion 22includes three apertures 26 for receiving up to three attachers 27 (onlyone is illustrated in FIG. 1 A). Alternatively, the plate portion 22 caninclude greater than three or less than three apertures 26, and/or thesubtalar plate implant 12 can be secured in place with greater thanthree or less than three attachers 27.

With this design, the plate portion 22 can be fixedly secured to alateral aspect of the calcaneus 16 outside of, but adjacent to thesubtalar joint 18. As a result thereof, the subtalar plate implant 12 iscan be relatively easily secured to the calcaneus 16 with the insertportion 24 accurately positioned in the subtalar joint 18. With thisdesign, the plate portion 22 is outside the subtalar joint 18 while theinsert portion 24 is positioned directly in the subtalar joint 18.

Stated in another fashion, the insert portion 24 is placed into thesinus tarsi and the plate portion 22 is fixed to the adjacent lateralcalcaneus. With this design, the subtalar plate implant 12 is placed inthe sinus tarsi effectively elevating the floor of the sinus tarsi whichthen changes the axis of the subtalar joint 18.

As noted above, and as illustrated in FIG. 1A, the insert portion 24extends away from the plate portion 22. Still further, the insertportion 24 is sized and shaped to fit securely within the sinus tarsiand/or within the subtalar joint 18 when the subtalar plate implant 12is implanted within the foot 10. As provided herein, when the subtalarplate implant 12 is implanted within the foot 10 of a person, the insertportion 24 is sized and shaped so that the insert portion 24 can bepositioned within the sinus tarsi and/or the subtalar joint 18 in amanner so as to correct and/or alter the alignment of the foot 10, e.g.,to correct and/or alter the alignment of a hyperpronated foot.

Additionally, as provided herein, in certain embodiments, a top surface236 (illustrated in FIG. 2A) of the insert portion 24 can be positionedsubstantially adjacent to a base of the talus 14, and may be angled toallow the talus 14 to articulate over the top surface 236 in a correctedposition to correct hyperpronation of the foot 10. Stated in anothermanner, the top surface 236 of the insert portion 24 can be positionedand shaped so as to allow the talus 14 to rotate over the top surface236 and relative to the calcaneus 16 during movement of the subtalarjoint 18, e.g., during walking or other flexing of the foot 10. Further,in some embodiments, a bottom surface 238 (illustrated in FIG. 2A) ofthe insert portion 24 may be shaped to at least substantially match theanatomy of the calcaneus 16 in the area of the calcaneus 16 adjacent towhich the insert portion 24 is positioned.

In certain embodiments, the insert portion 24 can be fixedly secured tothe plate portion 22. Alternatively, in some embodiments, the insertportion 24 can be integrally formed with the plate portion 22,

FIG. 1B is another perspective view of a portion of the foot 10 and thesubtalar plate implant 12 of FIG. 1A implanted therein. In particular,FIG. 1B illustrates more clearly how the insert portion 24 of theimplant body 20 is positioned securely within the sinus tarsi and/orwithin the subtalar joint 18 when the subtalar plate implant 12 isimplanted within the foot 10. Moreover, FIG. 1B also more clearlyillustrates (i) how the plate portion 22 can be sized and shaped tomatch the anatomy and/or shape of the lateral aspect of the calcaneus 16adjacent to which the plate portion 22 is positioned; and (ii) how theinsert portion 24 can be sized and shaped so that the insert portion 24can be positioned within the sinus tarsi and/or the subtalar joint 18 ina manner so as to correct and/or alter the alignment of the foot 10,i.e. with the top surface 236 (illustrated in FIG. 2A) being angled toallow the talus 14 to articulate over the top surface 236 in a correctedposition to correct hyperpronation of the foot 10, and the bottomsurface 238 (illustrated in FIG. 2A) being shaped to at leastsubstantially match the anatomy of the calcaneus 16 in the area of thecalcaneus 16 adjacent to which the insert portion 24 is positioned.

As with FIG. 1 A, it should be appreciated that certain soft tissuestructures and the fibula have been omitted from FIG. 1B for purposes ofclarity, i.e. so that the subtalar plate implant 12 can be better seenimplanted within the subtalar joint 18.

FIG. 1C is a front perspective view of a portion of the foot 10 and thesubtalar implant 12 of FIG. 1A implanted therein. Again, FIG. 1Cillustrates still more clearly how the insert portion 24 of the implantbody 20 is positioned securely within the sinus tarsi and/or within thesubtalar joint 18 when the subtalar plate implant 12 is implanted withinthe foot 10. Additionally, FIG. 1C also more clearly illustrates thepositioning of the plate portion 22 of the implant body 20 substantiallyadjacent to the lateral aspect of the calcaneus 16. Further, as notedabove, the shape of the plate portion 22 may be designed to at leastsubstantially match the anatomy, i.e. the shape, of the lateral aspectof the calcaneus 16 in the area where the subtalar plate implant 12 isimplanted.

As with FIGS. 1A and 1B, it should be appreciated that certain softtissue structures and the fibula have been omitted from FIG. 1C forpurposes of clarity, i.e. so that the subtalar plate implant 12 can bebetter seen implanted within the subtalar joint 18.

FIGS. 2A-2F are alternative views of the subtalar plate implant 12 ofFIG. 1A that illustrate further details and features of the subtalarplate implant 12. In particular, FIG. 2A is a simplified perspectiveview of the subtalar plate implant 12 of FIG. 1A; FIG. 2B is anothersimplified perspective view of the subtalar plate implant 12 of FIG. 2A;FIG. 2C is a simplified end view of the subtalar plate implant 12 ofFIG. 2A; FIG. 2D is a simplified side view of the subtalar plate implant12 of FIG. 2A; FIG. 2E is another simplified side view of the subtalarplate implant 12 of FIG. 2A; and FIG. 2F is a simplified top view of thesubtalar plate implant 12 of FIG. 2A.

It should be appreciated that the overall design and shape of thesubtalar plate implant 12 can be varied from the specific design andshape illustrated herein without altering the intended breadth and scopeof the present invention.

Initially, FIG. 2A illustrates certain details about the shape of theplate portion 22 of the implant body 20. For example, as illustrated inthis embodiment, the plate portion 22 of the implant body 20 is somewhatamorphous-shaped, having a first end 228, an opposed second end 230, atop 232, and a bottom 234. Additionally, as illustrated, each of thefirst end 228, the second end 230, the top 232 and the bottom 234 can besomewhat curved or rounded for comfort of the patient into whom thesubtalar plate implant 12 may be implanted. Further, in this embodiment,the three apertures 26 in the plate portion 22 are shown at and/orsubstantially adjacent to the first end 228, the second end 230 and thebottom 234, respectively, with each area of the apertures 26 juttingoutward somewhat from the remainder of the plate portion 22.

Additionally, FIG. 2A (which looks more closely at the second end 230 ofthe plate portion 22 of the implant body 20) and FIG. 2B (which looksmore closely at the first end 228 of the plate portion: 22 of theimplant body 20) illustrate certain details about the shape of theinsert portion 24 of the implant body 20. For example, as illustrated inthis embodiment, the insert portion 24 of the implant body 20 can extendapproximately and/or substantially perpendicularly away from the plateportion 22. Further, the insert portion 24 is shown as having a topsurface 236 and a bottom surface 238, with the top surface 236 extendingin a generally downward direction further toward the second end 230 ofthe plate portion 22 (as shown in FIG. 2A) than toward the first end 228of the plate portion 22 (as shown in FIG. 2B). In certain embodiments,as noted above, the top surface 236 of the insert portion 24 can bepositioned substantially adjacent to a base of the talus 14(illustrated, for example, in FIG. 1A), and may be angled to allow thetalus 14 to articulate over the top surface 236 in a corrected positionto correct hyperpronation of the foot 10 (illustrated, for example, inFIG. 1A). Moreover, in certain embodiments, the bottom surface 238 ofthe insert portion 24 may be shaped to at least substantially match theanatomy of the dorsal aspect of the calcaneus 16 (illustrated, forexample, in FIG. 1A) in the area in which the bottom surface 238 of theinsert portion 24 is positioned substantially adjacent to the calcaneus16.

Referring now to FIG. 2C, this simplified end view of the subtalar plateimplant 12 illustrates that the plate portion 22 includes an innersurface 240 that is adapted to face toward the calcaneus 16(illustrated, for example, in FIG. 1A), and an outer surface 242 that isadapted to face away from the calcaneus 16, when the subtalar plateimplant 12 is implanted in the foot 10 (illustrated, for example, inFIG. 1 A) of a patient. Additionally, in one embodiment, as shown inFIG. 2C, the plate portion 22 can be curved slightly inwardly (i.e.concave curvature from the perspective of the outer surface 242) in thearea of the plate portion 22 near the insert portion 24. The degree orextent of curvature of this section of the plate portion 22 can bevaried as desired, such that the plate portion 22 from the first end 228to the second end 230 can at least substantially match the shape, i.e.the bony contours, of the calcaneus 16 in the area adjacent to which theplate portion′ 22 is attached.

Further, FIG. 2C also illustrates that the implant body 20 can have abody height 244, which is the full height that the implant body 20extends from the outer surface 242 of the plate portion 22 (i.e. nearthe first end 228 or the second end 230) to a distal end 245 of theinsert portion 24 away from the plate portion 22. The body height 244 ofthe implant body 20 can be varied. In certain embodiments, the bodyheight 244 can be—between approximately 10.0 millimeters and 20.0millimeters. Alternatively, the body height 244 can be greater than 20.0millimeters or less than 10.0 millimeters.

As noted above, FIG. 2D is a simplified side view of the subtalar plateimplant 12 of FIG. 2A. In particular, FIG. 2D illustrates the subtalarplate implant 12 from the perspective of looking in at the second end230 of the plate portion 22 of the implant body 20. As shown in thisembodiment, the plate portion 22 can be curved or arched (i.e. convexcurvature from the perspective of the outer surface 242) from the top232 to the bottom 234 of the plate portion 22. The degree or extent ofcurvature of this section of the plate portion 22 can be varied asdesired, such that the plate portion 22 from the top 232 to the bottom234 can at least substantially match the shape, i.e. the bony contours,of the calcaneus 16 (illustrated, for example, in FIG. 1A) in the areaadjacent to which the plate portion 22 is attached on the calcaneus 16.

FIG. 2E provides another simplified side view of the subtalar plateimplant 12 of FIG. 2A. In particular, FIG. 2E illustrates the subtalarplate implant 12 from the perspective of looking in at the first end 228of the plate portion 22 of the implant body 20. As illustrated, FIG. 2Eagain illustrates the general curvature of the plate portion 22 from thetop 232 to the bottom 234 of the plate portion 22.

Additionally, FIG. 2E further illustrates an insert length 246 (i.e. thedistance the insert portion 24 extends away from the plate portion 22)and an insert width 248 (i.e. the distance the insert portion extendsalong and/or adjacent to the plate portion 22 away from the top 232 ofthe plate portion 22) of the insert portion 24 of the implant body 20.The insert length 246 and the insert width 248 can be varied. Forexample, in certain embodiments, the insert length 246 can be betweenapproximately 9.0 millimeters and 13.0 millimeters, and the insert width248 can be between approximately 7.5 millimeters and 11.5 millimeters.Alternatively, the insert length 246 can be greater than 13.0millimeters or less than 9.0 millimeters, and/or the insert width 248can be greater than 11.5 millimeters or less than 7.5 millimeters.

It should be appreciated that the insert length 246, as illustrated anddescribed herein, essentially equates to a depth that the insert portion24 is inserted into and/or within the sinus tarsi and/or the subtalarjoint 18 (illustrated in FIG. 1 A).

As noted above, FIG. 2F is a simplified top view of the subtalar plateimplant 12 of FIG. 2A. In particular, FIG. 2F clearly illustrates theunique amorphous shape of this particular embodiment of the plateportion 22 of the implant body 20. Additionally, FIG. 2F illustrates anoverall plate length 250 (i.e. from the first end 228 to the second end230) and a plate width 252 (i.e. from the top 232 to the bottom 234) ofthe plate portion 22 of the implant body 20. For example, in certainembodiments, the plate length 250 can be between approximately 25.0millimeters and 40.0 millimeters, and the plate width 252 can be betweenapproximately 20.0 millimeters and 35.0 millimeters. Alternatively, theplate length 250 can be greater than 40.0 millimeters or less than 25.0millimeters, and/or the plate width 252 can be greater than 35.0millimeters or less than 20.0 millimeters.

Additionally, FIG. 2F further illustrates the orientation of theapertures 26 relative to one another. For example, in certainembodiments, when the apertures 26 near the first end 228 and the secondend 230 of the plate portion 22 are viewed in a linear manner, theaperture 26 positioned near the bottom 234 of the plate portion 22 canhave an angle of orientation 254 of between approximately fifteen andforty-five degrees relative to the line between the end-most apertures26. More particularly, in one non-exclusive alternative embodiment, theaperture 26 positioned near the bottom 234 of the plate portion 22 canhave an angle of orientation 254 of approximately thirty degreesrelative to the line between the end-most apertures 26. Alternatively,the aperture 26 positioned near the bottom 234 of the plate portion 22can have an angle of orientation 254 of greater than forty-five degreesor less than fifteen degrees relative to the line between the end-mostapertures 26.

FIGS. 3A-3F are alternative views of another embodiment of the subtalarplate implant 312. In particular, FIG. 3A is a simplified perspectiveview of the subtalar plate implant 312; FIG. 3B is another simplifiedperspective view of the subtalar plate implant 312 of FIG. 3A; FIG. 3Cis a simplified end view of the subtalar plate implant 312 of FIG. 3A;FIG. 3D is a simplified side view of the subtalar plate implant 312 ofFIG. 3A; FIG. 3E is another simplified side view of the subtalar plateimplant 312 of FIG. 3A; and FIG. 3F is a simplified top view of thesubtalar plate implant 312 of FIG. 3A.

As illustrated, the subtalar plate implant 312 is somewhat similar tothe subtalar plate implant 12 illustrated and described above in theprevious embodiment. For example, the subtalar plate implant 312comprises an implant body 320 including a plate portion 322 and aninsert portion 324 that are somewhat similar to the implant body 20, theplate portion 22 and the insert portion 24 illustrated and describedabove. Additionally, the plate portion 322 again includes one or moreapertures 326 that are sized and shaped to receive one or more attachers(not illustrated) that will be inserted into the calcaneus 16(illustrated in FIG. 1A) to secure the subtalar plate implant 312 inplace. In particular, as illustrated, the plate portion 322 can includethree apertures 326, which can again be positioned substantiallyadjacent to the first end 328, the second end 330 and the bottom 334 ofthe plate portion 322. Further, the insert portion 324 of the implantbody 320 is again to designed to be positioned securely within the sinustarsi and/or within the subtalar joint 18 (illustrated in FIG. 1A) whenthe subtalar plate implant 312 is implanted within the foot 10(illustrated in FIG. 1 A).

Referring initially to FIG. 3A, this Figure illustrates certain detailsabout the shape of the plate portion 322 of the implant body 320, Inparticular, the plate portion 322 again includes a first end 328, asecond end 330, a top 332 and a bottom 334 that are generally designedin a similar manner to the previous embodiment. However, as illustrated,the plate portion 322 of the subtalar plate implant 312 in thisembodiment has a slightly different overall shape than the plate portion22 of the subtalar plate implant 12 in the previous embodiment. Forexample, as shown, the areas of the plate portion 322 that include theapertures 326 are somewhat less rounded and closer together relative tothe other areas of the plate portion 322 as compared to the previousembodiment. Moreover, the apertures 326 are somewhat more aligned withone another across the plate portion 322. Stated in another manner, theaperture 326 positioned near the bottom 334 of the plate portion 322 canhave an angle of orientation 354 (illustrated in FIG. 3F) relative tothe line between the end-most apertures 326 that is somewhat less thanin the previous embodiment. With this design, as more clearlyillustrated in FIG. 3F, although the plate portion 322 is still somewhatamorphous-shaped, the plate portion 322 has a much more pronouncedsomewhat triangular shape. However, even with such changes in the designof the plate portion 322, the overall design and function of thesubtalar plate implant 312 is substantially similar to the overalldesign and function of the previous embodiment, as illustrated anddescribed above.

Additionally, FIG. 3A (which looks more closely at the second end 330 ofthe plate portion 322 of the implant body 320) and FIG. 3B (which looksmore closely at the first end 328 of the plate portion 322 of theimplant body 320) illustrate certain details about the shape of theinsert portion 324 of the implant body 320. For example, as illustratedin this embodiment, the insert portion 324 again extends approximatelyand/or substantially perpendicularly away from the plate portion 322.Further, the insert portion 324 again includes a top surface 336 and abottom surface 338, with the top surface 336 extending in a generallydownward direction further toward the second end 330 of the plateportion 322 (as shown in FIG. 3A) than toward the first end 328 of theplate portion 322 (as shown in FIG. 3B). As with the previousembodiment, the top surface 336 of the insert portion 324 can bepositioned substantially adjacent to a base of the talus 14 (illustratedin FIG. 1A), and may be angled to allow the talus 14 to articulate overthe top surface 336 in a corrected position to correct hyperpronation ofthe foot 10 (illustrated in FIG. 1A). Moreover, the bottom surface 338of the insert portion 324 may again be shaped to at least substantiallymatch the anatomy of the dorsal aspect of the calcaneus 16 (illustratedin FIG. 1A) in the area in which the bottom surface 338 of the insertportion 324 is positioned substantially adjacent to the calcaneus 16.

As noted above, FIG. 3C is a simplified end view of the subtalar plateimplant 312 of FIG. 3A. As illustrated in this embodiment, the plateportion 322 of the implant body 320 has a general shape or profile fromthe end view that is substantially similar to that of the previousembodiment. For example, the plate portion 322 can again be curvedslightly inwardly (i.e. concave curvature from the perspective of theouter surface 342) in the area of the plate portion 322 near the insertportion 324. The degree or extent of curvature of this section of theplate portion 322 can be varied as desired, such that the plate portion322 from the first end 328 to the second end 330 can at leastsubstantially match the shape of the calcaneus 16 in the area adjacentto which the plate portion 322 is attached.

Additionally, FIG. 3C further illustrates that the insert portion 324can include a concave groove 356 (illustrated in phantom) that is formedalong the bottom surface 338 (illustrated in FIG. 3A) and substantiallyparallel to the plate portion 322 of the Insert body 320. The design ofthe groove 356 can be varied as desired. For example, in certainembodiments, the groove 356 is sized and shaped to avoid and/orcompensate for a bony ridge that can exist along the dorsal surface ofthe calcaneus 16 (illustrated in FIG. 1A). The groove 356 will bedescribed in greater detail herein below.

As provided above, FIG. 3D is a simplified side view of the subtalarplate implant 312 of FIG. 3A; and FIG. 3E is another simplified sideview of the subtalar plate implant 312 of FIG. 3A. In particular, FIGS.3D and 3E illustrate more clearly various features regarding the designand positioning of the groove 356 that is formed along the bottomsurface 338 of the insert body 324 of the insert body 320. For example,FIGS. 3D and 3E illustrate how the groove 356 is substantially parallelto the plate portion 322 of the insert body 320.

Additionally, in this embodiment, FIG. 3D illustrates that the groove356 can have a groove depth 358 of between approximately 1.0 and 2.0millimeters. Alternatively, the groove 356 can have a groove depth 358that is greater than 2.0 millimeters or less than 1.0 millimeters.

Further, as shown, the groove 356 can be a rounded groove having agroove radius of curvature 360 of between approximately 2.0 and 3.0millimeters. Alternatively, the groove 356 can have a different shape,e.g., a squared shape, and/or the groove 356 can have a groove radius ofcurvature 360 that is greater than 3.0 millimeters or less than 2.0millimeters.

Still further, in certain embodiments, the groove 356 can be formedalong the bottom surface 338 of the insert body 324 spaced apart fromthe plate portion 322. For example, as shown in the embodimentillustrated in FIG. 3D, a center of the groove 356 can be spaced apartfrom the plate portion 322 by a spacing distance 362 of betweenapproximately 3.0 and 5.0 millimeters. Alternatively, the center of thegroove 356 can be spaced apart from the plate portion 322 by a spacingdistance 362 of greater than 5.0 millimeters or less than 3.0millimeters.

As noted above, FIG. 3F is a simplified top view of the subtalar plateimplant 312 of FIG. 3A. In particular, FIG. 3F illustrates the somewhatamorphous and somewhat triangular shape of the plate portion 322 of theimplant body 320. Additionally, FIG. 3F illustrates an overall platelength 350 (i.e. from the first end 328 to the second end 330) and aplate width 352 (i.e. from the top 332 to the bottom 334) of the plateportion 322. For example, in this embodiment, the plate length 350 canbe between approximately 20.0 millimeters and 35.0 millimeters, and theplate width 352 can be between approximately 15.0 millimeters and 25.0millimeters. Alternatively, the plate length 350 can be greater than35.0 millimeters or less than 20.0 millimeters, and/or the plate width352 can be greater than 25.0 millimeters or less than 15.0 millimeters.

Further, FIG. 3F also illustrates that the bottom surface 338 of theinsert portion 324 (illustrated in FIG. 3A) has a convex-shaped profile,which can be curved or rounded. For example, in certain embodiments, thebottom surface 338 of the insert portion 324 can have an insert radiusof curvature 364 of between approximately 5.5 millimeters and 11.5millimeters. Alternatively, the bottom surface 338 of the insert portion324 can have an insert radius of curvature 364 of greater than 11.5millimeters or less than 5.5 millimeters.

Additionally, FIG. 3F illustrates that the apertures 326 aresubstantially evenly spaced from one another when moving from the firstend 328 to the second end 330. For example, in certain embodiments, theapertures 326 can be spaced apart from one another by an aperturespacing 366 of between approximately 5.5 millimeters and 13.0millimeters. Alternatively, the apertures 326 can be spaced apart fromone another by an aperture spacing 366 of greater than 13.0 millimetersor less than 5.5 millimeters.

Still further, as noted above, FIG. 3F further illustrates theorientation of the apertures 326 relative to one another. For example,in certain embodiments, the aperture 326 positioned near the bottom 334of the plate portion 322 can have an angle of orientation 354 of betweenapproximately ten and twenty degrees relative to a line drawn betweenthe end-most apertures 326. More particularly, in one non-exclusivealternative embodiment, the aperture 326 positioned near the bottom 334of the plate portion 322 can have an angle of orientation 354 ofapproximately fifteen degrees relative to the line between the end-mostapertures 326. Alternatively, the aperture 326 positioned near thebottom 334 of the plate portion 322 can have an angle of orientation 354of greater than twenty degrees or less than ten degrees relative to theline between the end-most apertures 326.

FIGS. 4A-4D are alternative views of still another embodiment of thesubtalar plate implant 412. In particular, FIG. 4A is a simplified sideview of the subtalar plate implant 412; FIG. 4B is another simplifiedside view of the subtalar plate implant 412 of FIG. 4A; FIG. 4C is asimplified end view of the subtalar plate implant of FIG. 4A; and FIG.4D is a simplified top view of the subtalar plate implant 412 of FIG.4A.

In this embodiment, the subtalar plate implant 412 is substantiallysimilar to the subtalar plate implant 312 illustrated and describedabove in relation to FIGS. 3A-3F. More specifically, the subtalar plateimplant 412 again comprises an implant body 420 including a plateportion 422 and an insert portion 424 that are substantially similar tothe implant body 320, the plate portion 322 and the insert portion 324illustrated and described above in relation to FIGS. 3A-3F.Additionally, the insert portion 424 again includes a groove 456 alongthe bottom surface 438 that is substantially parallel to and spacedapart from the plate portion 422, the groove 456 being sized and shapedto avoid and/or compensate for the bony ridge that can exist along thedorsal surface of the calcaneus 16 (illustrated in FIG. 1A).

However, in this embodiment, the insert portion 424 has a slightlydifferent shape as compared to the previous embodiment. In particular,as illustrated most clearly in FIG. 4D, the bottom surface 433 of theinsert portion 424 (illustrated, for example, in FIG. 4A) has adifferent shape than in the previous embodiment. For example, the bottomsurface 438 no longer has a curved or rounded profile as in the previousembodiment. Rather, the bottom surface 438 of the insert portion 424 hasa pair a flat segments, i.e. a first flat segment 468A and a second flatsegment 468B that are angled relative to one another, and that arejoined together by a rounded corner 470.

The design and relative orientation of the flat segments 468A, 468B canbe varied to suit the specific requirements of the insert portion 424 ofthe implant body 420. For example, in certain embodiments, (i) the firstflat segment 468A can have a first segment length 472A of betweenapproximately 9.0 millimeters and 15.0 millimeters; (ii) the second flatsegment 468B can have a second segment length 472B of betweenapproximately 4.5 millimeters and 7.5 millimeters; and (iii) the flatsegments 468A, 468B can be joined together by the rounded corner 470having a corner angle 474 of between approximately ninety and onehundred twenty degrees. Alternatively, (i) the first flat segment 468Acan have a first segment length 472A that is greater than 15.0millimeters or less than 9.0 millimeters; (ii) the second flat segment468B can have a second segment length 472B that is greater than 7.5millimeters or less than 4.5 millimeters; and/or (iii) the flat segments468A, 468B can be joined together by the rounded corner 470 having acorner angle 474 of greater than one hundred twenty degrees or less thanninety degrees.

FIGS. 5A-5G are alternative views of yet another embodiment of thesubtalar plate implant 512, In particular, FIG. 5A is a simplified sideview of the subtalar plate implant 512; FIG. 5B is another simplifiedside view of the subtalar plate implant 512 of FIG. 5A; FIG. 5C is stillanother simplified side view of the subtalar plate implant 512 of FIG.5A and a plurality of attachers 527 that are usable with the subtalarplate implant 512; FIG. 5D is a simplified end view of the subtalarplate implant 512 of FIG. 5A; FIG. 5E is another simplified end view ofthe subtalar plate implant 512 of FIG. 5A and the plurality of attachers527 of FIG. 5C; FIG. 5F is a simplified top view of the subtalar plateimplant 512 of FIG. 5A; and FIG. 5G Is another simplified top view ofthe subtalar plate implant 512 of FIG. 5A and the plurality of attachers527 of FIG. 5C.

In this embodiment, the subtalar plate implant 512 is somewhat similarto the subtalar plate implants 312, 412 illustrated and described abovein relation to FIGS. 3A-3F and 4A-4D, respectively. More specifically,initially referring to FIGS. 5A and 5B, the subtalar plate implant 512again comprises an implant body 520 including a plate portion 522 and aninsert portion 524 that are somewhat similar in design and function ascompared to the corresponding features illustrated and described abovein relation to FIGS. 3A-3F and FIGS. 4A-4D, Additionally, as shown, theinsert portion 524 again includes a groove 556 along the bottom surface538 that is substantially parallel to and spaced apart from the plateportion 522, the groove 556 being sized and shaped to avoid and/orcompensate for the bony ridge that can exist along the dorsal surface ofthe calcaneus 16 (illustrated in FIG. 1 A).

As noted above, FIG. 5B is a simplified side view of the subtalar plateimplant 512. Additionally, FIG. 5C is a comparable side view of thesubtalar plate implant 512, which shows the orientation of the attachers527 as the attachers 527 extend through the apertures 526 (illustratedin FIG. 5F) for purposes of attaching the plate portion 522 of theimplant body 520 to the lateral aspect of the calcaneus 16 (illustratedin FIG. 1 A).

Further, as illustrated most clearly in FIG. 5F, similar to theembodiment illustrated in FIGS. 4A-4D, the bottom surface 538 of theinsert portion 524 (illustrated more clearly in FIG. 5A) again has apair a flat segments 568 that are angled relative to one another, andthat are joined together by a rounded corner 570.

However, referring back to FIG. 5A, in this embodiment, the insertportion 524 further includes a cutout portion 576 along the bottomsurface 538 that can be positioned substantially adjacent to the groove556. The cutout portion 576 can be sized and shaped to avoid and/orcompensate for a high spot that can exist along the dorsal surface ofthe calcaneus 16, such that the bottom surface 538 can more effectivelyand accurately match the shape of the dorsal surface of the calcaneus16. Alternatively, the insert portion 524 can be designed without thecutout portion 576, and the high spot along the dorsal surface of thecalcaneus 16 can be shaved down in preparation for implantation of thesubtalar plate implant 512.

As provided above, FIG. 5D is a simplified end view of the subtalarplate implant 512. In particular, FIG. 5D further illustrates the designand positioning for the cutout portion 576 that can be formed along thebottom surface 538 of the insert portion 524 substantially adjacent tothe groove 556, Additionally, FIG. 5E is a comparable end view of thesubtalar plate implant 512, which shows the orientation of the attachers527 as the attachers 527 extend through the apertures 526 for purposesof attaching the plate portion 522 of the implant body 520 to thelateral aspect of the calcaneus 16 (illustrated in FIG. 1 A).

Additionally, as shown most clearly in FIG. 5F, the plate portion 522can have a slightly different shape than the previous embodiments, andthe plate portion 522 can include one or more apertures 526 that arepositioned in a different manner than in the previous embodiments. Morespecifically, the plate portion 522 again includes a first end 528, asecond end 530, a top 532 and a bottom 534; but in this embodiment, thebottom 534 of the plate portion 522 extends and/or curves in an inwardmanner relative to the remainder of the plate portion 522, as opposed tojutting out slightly as it did in the previous embodiments. With thisdesign, although the plate portion 522 is still somewhatamorphous-shaped, the plate portion 522 can also be seen as having ashape somewhat similar to that of the head of an arrow.

Further, as noted, the positioning of the apertures 526 can be differentthan in the previous embodiments. In this embodiment, the plate portion522 again includes apertures 526 located substantially adjacent to thefirst end 528 and the second end 530 of the plate portion 522, but theplate portion 522 further includes an aperture 526 positionedsubstantially adjacent to the top 532 of the plate portion 522 (i.e. asopposed to substantially adjacent to the bottom of the plate portion ascan be seen in the previous embodiments). Each of the apertures 526 isagain adapted to receive an attacher 527 (illustrated, for example, inFIG. 5G) so as to effectively secure the plate portion 522 of thesubtalar plate implant 512 adjacent to the lateral aspect of thecalcaneus 16 (illustrated in FIG. 1A) in the area where the subtalarplate implant 512 is implanted.

FIG. 5G is a comparable top view of the subtalar plate implant 512,which shows the orientation of the attachers 527 as the attachers 527extend through the apertures 526 for purposes of attaching the plateportion 522 of the implant body 520 to the lateral aspect of thecalcaneus 16 (illustrated in FIG. 1A). With this design, by securing theplate portion 522 to the calcaneus 16 with an attacher 527 substantiallyadjacent to the top 532 of the plate portion 522, the insert portion 524(illustrated in FIG. 5A) may be held more securely within the subtalarjoint 18 (illustrated in FIG. 1 A), i.e. there is less ability of theinsert portion 524 to potentially move slightly in and out of thesubtalar joint 18 during motion of the foot 10 (illustrated in FIG. 1A).

As illustrated, and as described in detail herein, the overall designand shape of the subtalar plate implant 12 is designed (e.g., withrounded edges and corners, with smooth surfaces, etc.) to suit thecomfort of the patient into whom the subtalar plate implant 12 will beimplanted, as well as to perform the desired function of correcting thehyperpronation of the foot 10 (illustrated, for example, in FIG. 1A) ofthe patient. For example, as described in detail herein, in someembodiments, the shape of the plate portion 22 of the implant body 20can be designed to at least substantially match the lateral aspect ofthe calcaneus 16 (illustrated, for example, in FIG. 1A) in the areaadjacent to which the plate portion 22 is secured to the calcaneus 16.Moreover, as noted above, the top surface 236 of the insert portion 24may be angled to allow the talus 14 (illustrated, for example, in FIG. 1A) to articulate over the top surface 236 in a corrected position tocorrect hyperpronation of the foot 10; and the bottom surface 238 of theinsert portion 24 may be shaped to at least substantially match theanatomy of the dorsal aspect of the calcaneus 16 in the area in whichthe bottom surface 238 of the insert portion 24 is positionedsubstantially adjacent to the calcaneus 16.

Additionally, it should be appreciated that the various features andaspects of the subtalar plate implant 12, 312, 412, 512 that have beenillustrated and described herein in various embodiments can be combinedin any suitable manner to form new embodiments without altering theintended scope and breadth of the present invention.

While a number of exemplary aspects and embodiments of a subtalar plateimplant 12, 312, 412, 512 have been shown and disclosed herein above,those of skill in the art will recognize certain modifications,permutations, additions and sub-combinations thereof. It is thereforeintended that the subtalar plate implant 12, 312, 412, 512 shall beinterpreted to include all such modifications, permutations, additionsand sub-combinations as are within their true spirit and scope, and nolimitations are intended to the details of construction or design hereinshown.

What is claimed is:
 1. A subtalar plate implant for implanting in afoot, the foot including a talus, a calcaneus, and a subtalar joint atthe meeting point of the talus and the calcaneus, the subtalar plateimplant comprising: a plate portion that is selectively positionablesubstantially adjacent to a lateral aspect of the calcaneus, the plateportion including an aperture that is adapted to receive an attacher forselectively attaching the plate portion to the lateral aspect of thecalcaneus; and an insert portion that is connected to the plate portion,the insert portion being at least partially positionable within thesubtalar joint when the subtalar plate implant is implanted in the foot.2. The subtalar plate implant of claim 1 wherein the plate portion isshaped to substantially match a shape of the lateral aspect of thecalcaneus adjacent to which the plate portion is selectivelypositionable.
 3. The subtalar plate implant of claim 1 wherein the plateportion is substantially amorphous-shaped.
 4. The subtalar plate implantof claim 3 wherein the plate portion includes a first end, a second end,a top and a bottom, wherein the plate portion includes an aperture thatis positioned substantially adjacent to each of the first end and thesecond end, and wherein the plate portion includes an aperture that ispositioned substantially adjacent to one of the top and the bottom. 5.The subtalar plate implant of claim 1 wherein the insert portionincludes a top surface that is selectively positionable substantiallyadjacent to a base of the talus, the top surface being angled to allowthe talus to articulate over the top surface.
 6. The subtalar plateimplant of claim 1 wherein the insert portion includes a bottom surfacethat is selectively positionable substantially adjacent to a dorsalsurface of the calcaneus.
 7. The subtalar plate implant of claim 6wherein the insert portion includes a groove that is formed along thebottom surface.
 8. The subtalar plate implant of claim 7 wherein thegroove is formed along the bottom surface substantially parallel to theplate portion.
 9. The subtalar plate implant of claim 6 wherein thebottom surface is substantially convex-shaped.
 10. The subtalar plateimplant of claim 6 wherein the bottom surface includes a pair of flatsegments that are angled relative to one another.
 11. The subtalar plateimplant of claim 1 wherein the plate portion and the insert portion areformed from one or more of a metallic material and a polymeric material.12. A subtalar plate implant for correcting the hyperpronation of afoot, the foot including a talus, a calcaneus, and a subtalar joint atthe meeting point of the talus and the calcaneus, the subtalar plateimplant comprising: an insert portion that is at least partiallypositionable within the subtalar joint when the subtalar plate implantis implanted in the foot, the insert portion including a bottom surfacethat is selectively positionable substantially adjacent to a dorsalsurface of the calcaneus, and the insert portion including a groove thatis formed along the bottom surface.
 13. The subtalar plate implant ofclaim 12 wherein the bottom surface is substantially convex-shaped. 14.The subtalar plate implant of claim 12 wherein the bottom surfaceincludes a pair of flat segments that are angled relative to oneanother.
 15. The subtalar plate implant of claim 12 wherein the insertportion includes a top surface that is selectively positionablesubstantially adjacent to a base of the talus, the top surface beingangled to allow the talus to articulate over the top surface.
 16. Thesubtalar plate implant of claim 12 further comprising a plate portionthat is connected to the insert portion, the insert portion extendingsubstantially perpendicularly away from the plate portion, wherein theplate portion is selectively positionable substantially adjacent to alateral aspect of the calcaneus.
 17. The subtalar plate implant of claim16 wherein the plate portion includes an aperture that is adapted toreceive an attacher for selectively attaching the plate portion to thelateral aspect of the calcaneus.
 18. The subtalar plate implant of claim17 wherein the plate portion is substantially amorphous-shaped, theplate portion including a first end, a second end, a top and a bottom,wherein the plate portion includes an aperture that is positionedsubstantially adjacent to each of the first end and the second end, andwherein the plate portion includes an aperture that is positionedsubstantially adjacent to one of the top and the bottom.
 19. Thesubtalar plate implant of claim 16 wherein the groove is formed alongthe bottom surface substantially adjacent to the plate portion.
 20. Asubtalar plate implant for correcting the hyperpronation of a foot, thefoot including a talus, a calcaneus, and a subtalar joint at the meetingpoint of the talus and the calcaneus, the subtalar plate implantcomprising: a plate portion that is selectively positionablesubstantially adjacent to a lateral aspect of the calcaneus, the plateportion being substantially amorphous-shaped, the plate portionincluding a first end, a second end, a top and a bottom, wherein theplate portion includes an aperture that is positioned substantiallyadjacent to each of the first end and the second end, and wherein theplate portion includes an aperture that is positioned substantiallyadjacent to one of the top and the bottom, each of the apertures beingadapted to receive an attacher for selectively attaching the plateportion to the lateral aspect of the calcaneus; and an insert portionthat is connected to the plate portion, the insert portion extendingsubstantially perpendicularly away from the plate portion, the insertportion including a top surface and a bottom surface, wherein the topsurface is selectively positionable substantially adjacent to a base ofthe talus, the top surface being angled to allow the talus to articulateover the top surface; and wherein the bottom surface is selectivelypositionable substantially adjacent to a dorsal surface of thecalcaneus, the insert portion including a groove that is formed alongthe bottom surface substantially parallel to the plate portion.
 21. Amethod for treating a subtalar joint formed between a talus and acalcaneus in a foot, the method comprising the steps of: positioning atleast a portion of an insert portion of a subtalar plate implant into atthe subtalar joint; and fixedly securing a plate portion of the subtalarplate implant to a lateral aspect of the calcaneus.